AUGUST 10: FRIENDLIES BETTING

CARLING CUP, Challenge Cup and now international friendlies – it doesn’t get any easier for punters.

The three types of games are possibly the toughest to predict and once again my advice would be to keep stakes small if you’re having a bet.

There are so many matches on Wednesday that have draw written all over them but I’ve tried to pick out some that won’t end in stalemate.

So let’s start with world champions Spain who face Italy in Bari. The Spanish were all over the place after their South Africa success but have got back on track with five successive wins.

Italy, meanwhile, under Cesare Prandelli are still working out their best line-up and were shocking as they lost at home to the Republic of Ireland last time out.

Both sides will be missing players but Spain’s strength in depth is greater and they have enough of an attacking threat to cause problems. They are a best 11-8 with the likes of William Hill and Ladbrokes.

Poland should have little trouble coping with Georgia at home. The Poles look a team on the up having lost just one out of six, including a victory against Argentina.

Georgia have scored just five goals in seven Euro 2012 qualifiers and that’s where their problems lie. Poland are 8-13 with most firms.

Complete a treble with Russia who should be too strong for a Serbia outfit missing several key players.

Russia are joint top of Group B and looking good for a spot in the finals. Serbia are struggling with just eight points from six games and look set for defeat here.

Another side to consider are Cyprus who will be out to impress their new coach against a pretty weak Molodova side. They are 10-11 with Ladbrokes and Stan James.